Leviticus 4 Commentary

Leviticus 4 focuses on the sin offering, a crucial aspect of the Israelite's religious practices designed to atone for unintentional sins. This chapter outlines the offering procedures for four different groups: the anointed priest, the community as a whole, a leader, and individual commoners among the people. Each is given a specific sacrificial procedure to follow, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging one's sins and seeking reconciliation with God.

Leviticus 4 can be divided as follows:

• Leviticus 4:1-12: Sin offerings in the case of an anointed priest committing a sin.
• Leviticus 4:13-21: Sin offerings in the case of the whole community committing a sin.
• Leviticus 4:22-26: Sin offerings in the case of an Israelite leader committing a sin.
• Leviticus 4:27-31: Sin offerings in the case of a common person committing a sin, where a female goat is the offering.
• Leviticus 4:32-35: Sin offerings in the case of a common person committing a sin, where a female lamb is the offering.

Leviticus 4 teaches about the seriousness of sin, even when committed unintentionally, and the need for atonement to restore one's fellowship with God. This concept carries over into the New Testament, with Jesus teaching the need for forgiveness to restore fellowship in His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:14-15) as well as the apostle John speaking of the need for confession to restore fellowship (1 John 1:9).

Belief in Jesus Christ provides a once-for-all atonement for sin, reconciling us in His sight, and placing us into a covenant relationship with God (John 3:14-15). Prior to Jesus’ perfect sacrifice these sin offerings provided a way for the Israelites to seek forgiveness and restoration, highlighting the mercy and holiness of God in the process of confession and cleansing from sin.